The photographs of great blue herons were made on three mountain lakes in northern Arizona. They were taken from a propellor-driven kayak, which, since it is powered by the feet, leaves both hands free for photography. The kayak moves with very little sound or visible motion to disturb a subject. Furthermore, as reverse is obtained simply by pedalling backwards, it is possible to maintain station against a wind or current, just by alternating the direction of pedalling. A great many of these images would have been unobtainable without this particular type of kayak, which enables a photographer to get close to a subject, and respond quickly and quietly to any sudden activity.
In ancient cultures, the heron was a symbol of patience and decision. It was admired for its ability to remain motionless for long periods and then strike with speed and precision, skills a wildlife photographer certainly needs. The heron’s message was to consider carefully before acting, but to commit wholeheartedly when the moment is right.
Everything was shot with a Nikon D500, and a Sigma 100-300mm f/4.
